Ferc Issues Notice on Questar Project

The United States Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has issued an environmental assessment notice of intent in connection with Questar Pipeline Company's proposed southern system expansion project.

Dated Feb. 27, the notice formally opened the scoping process implemented by FERC to gather public input and identify the concerns to address in completing an environmental assessment for the project.

The energy regulatory commission will utilize the assessment in determining whether to authorize Questar's expansion project. The scoping period will close April 7.

In Utah, the natural gas company's proposed expansion includes:

Installing 18.4 miles of 24-inch pipeline near Price

Approximately nine miles of the natural gas transmission expansion project would loop the company's existing main line.

The remaining nine miles would follow existing utility rights of way.

Constructing a new compressor station in Duchesne County.

Building a new compressor station in Utah County.

Modifying a compressor station in Carbon County.

Modifications would occur within fenced yards at the company's existing Oak Spring facility.

The proposed pipeline project also includes modifying a natural gas compressor station in Rio Blanco County, Colorado.

The energy regulatory commission will act as the lead federal agency in ensuring that Questar's southern system expansion project complies with the regulations established by the National Environmental Policy Act.

FERC will decide whether a certificate of public convenience and necessity should be issued for the project, explained the regulatory commission.

The United Bureau of Land Management will determine whether to issue a right of way grant for the portions of the expansion crossing public property under the federal jurisdiction.

FERC certification conveys the right of eminent domain for securing the property easements required to complete approved projects, indicated the federal agency.